IATA Special Provision A88 permits the air transport of prototype, pre-production, low-production, and untested lithium or sodium-ion cells and batteries that have not yet passed the UN 38.3 testing requirements. Because these batteries present a higher risk, they can only be transported under strict regulatory controls.
When Does A88 Apply?
Special Provision A88 applies to:
- Prototype batteries being shipped for testing.
- Pre-production batteries.
- Low production runs of 100 batteries or fewer per year.
- Lithium or sodium-ion batteries that have not passed UN 38.3 testing.
Key Requirements
To ship under A88:
- Approval must be obtained from the Competent Authority of both the State of Origin and the State of the Operator.
- The shipment must comply with Packing Instruction 910 (PI 910) in the ICAO Technical Instructions.
- Packing Instruction 910 must be entered on the Shipper's Declaration.
- A copy of the Competent Authority approval must accompany the shipment.
- The Shipper's Declaration must state that the shipment is being transported under Special Provision A88.
Unlike many lithium battery provisions, batteries shipped under A88 may exceed 35 kg when prepared for transport.
Need Help?
DG Online Training provides practical IATA Dangerous Goods training covering lithium battery shipping requirements, Special Provisions, documentation, and compliance to help ensure your air shipments meet the latest IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.